In this article, we will explore the importance of web accessibility, discuss some standards and best practices and understand why it is important to design inclusively and comply with accessibility standards.

What is web accessibility?

Website accessibility refers to the design and construction of websites so that they can be used by anyone. This means presenting information in a variety of ways, for example through text and audio, and offering alternative ways to navigate and interact with the site. In this way, users with different capabilities can access and interact with your website's content and features.

Why is it important?

There are several reasons why making your website accessible should be a priority:

• User Experience: By making your website accessible, you ensure that all potential users have a good user experience and can easily access information.
• SEO Improvements: Accessible websites often have better search engine optimisation (SEO) due to their well-structured content and the use of descriptive tags.
• Inclusion: Stating a commitment to accessibility demonstrates that you care about all users.

How can you make your website accessible?

Now that we have understood what website accessibility is and its importance, the next question is what you can do to ensure that your website is compliant with accessibility parameters.

Here are some simple steps:

• Organise your content: Use clear headings and subheadings to structure your content, making it easier for users and assistive technologies to understand your website.
• Add a short, descriptive text (called "alternative text") to your images, so that users who cannot see the images can understand your content through screen readers. For further optimisation, at the development stage, there are processes in place to check and ensure that all images have alternative text before the site goes online.
• Choose legible colours: Colours with sufficient contrast are crucial to make your text and other elements easy to read for visually impaired users.

In conclusion, website accessibility is a key aspect that ensures an inclusive experience for all users. By understanding its importance and implementing the necessary measures to make your website accessible, you will contribute to the creation of a more inclusive digital environment and, at the same time, meet the diverse needs of your audience.

Remember, an accessible website not only benefits disabled users, but also improves the overall usability of your site and its performance in search engines.